St Stithians hosts the biggest water polo splash of the year

LYME PARK – The best of the best splash it out at Saints Water Polo Invitational.

October 23, 2017

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

Robert Hart hopes to keep a shot out of goal for Crawford College Lonehill. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

A whopping 650 water polo players made the 24th annual Saints Water Polo Invitational not just one of the biggest splashes of the year, but one of the most high-profile ones too.

Coming from all over South Africa, and some from Zimbabwe, 50 school teams competed for glory at St Stithians College from 19–22 October.

The St Stithians and Michaelhouse game is a good contest. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The tournament is the first played in the water polo season, where schools are unable to include their matrics.

For this reason, the tournament is often referred to as the ‘stayers invitational’, as coaches have to select players who will also be available for games next year.

“It gives lots of leverage for next year. We know what we are working with and what to practise,” commented Crawford College Lonehill coach, Matthew Wilson.

Jordan Wilson of Rand Park High School holds onto a Clarendon High School for Girls player. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

For event committee member, Liske van Tubbergh a gathering of the country’s best Gauteng and coastal teams always offers a good show.

In the end, Reddam House Constantia won in the preparatory schools division, Pearson High School won the senior girls section and Rondebosch Boys’ High School was the senior boys’ winner.

On dry ground, food stalls were very popular, keeping everyone well-fed and content. The hospitality zone and players’ chill area also maintained a great atmosphere.